One-Pot Greek Beef & Orzo (Kritharaki Me Kima)

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is lower in fat, while ground pork is often less expensive.

feta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Cottage cheese is lower in calories, and ricotta is often more affordable.

kalamata olives

🥗Healthier: green olives

💰Cheaper: black olives

Green olives provide a similar briny flavor, while black olives are usually cheaper.

beef broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth can reduce calories, and seasoned water is a budget-friendly alternative.

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat for about 8 minutes until the onion is soft and golden.

Add 4 grated garlic cloves and warm through until fragrant.

Add 2 lbs of ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and season with salt, black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon.

Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about a few minutes.

Add 1-2 bay leaves and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Stir in a 15 oz can of tomato sauce, rinsing the can with a little water to get all the sauce out.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover, cooking for about 15 minutes until thickened.

Add 1 lb of uncooked orzo pasta and 6 cups of water or broth, seasoning with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt.

Bring to a boil, then cook for about 18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then stir in finely chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens